How long can my employer offer me support for my childcare under the salary sacrifice scheme?

Under a salary sacrifice scheme, an employee’s contract is amended to make it clear that the parent is entitled to a lower taxable salary, in return for the equivalent amount being paid in childcare vouchers. The employee may not retain the right to return to the previous level of salary within the terms of their contract, so ideally the change would be for a specific period of time, say for one year, or until the child reaches a certain age.

This is written into the contract and, during that time, the employee cannot return to their previous salary.

Note: This content is provided as general background information and should not be taken as legal advice or financial advice for your particular situation. Make sure to get individual advice on your case from your union, a source on our free help page or an independent financial advisor before taking any action.